Sleep is a natural, recurring, and essential physiological state in which the body and mind undergo a complex series of restorative processes. It is characterized by reduced consciousness, lowered sensory responsiveness, and specific patterns of brain activity. Sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being, playing a vital role in functions such as memory consolidation, emotional regulation, and physical rejuvenation. It occurs in cycles comprising distinct stages, including rapid eye movement (REM) and non-REM sleep, each with unique characteristics. A consistent and sufficient sleep duration is necessary for cognitive functioning, mood stability, and physical health, with disruptions to sleep linked to various health issues. The sleep cycle typically progresses from NREM Stage 1 to Stage 4 and then into REM sleep. This cycle repeats multiple times during the night, with each cycle lasting about 90-110 minutes. As the night progresses, REM sleep stages become longer, while deep NREM sleep (Stage 3 and 4) becomes shorter.
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